Hearing Aids Through the Ages

Hearing Aids Through The Ages: 17th Century - Today

Hearing loss has been a challenge faced by people through history, but advances in technology have greatly changed how we manage it.¹ From the large ear trumpets being used in the 17th century to catch conversations in a bustling banquet hall to battery-powered devices of the 20th century, hearing aids have evolved considerably. Today, modern hearing aids are small, discrete, and far more powerful, blending seamlessly into daily life while delivering exceptional sound quality. 

In this blog, we’ll journey through the fascinating evolution of hearing aids and see how each innovation has improved lives by enhancing hearing, comfort, and connectivity with the world.

17th to 19th Century: The Age Of Acoustic Hearing Aids

The earliest hearing aids were purely mechanical, designed to amplify sound without electricity. These funnel-shaped tools, made from animal horn, wood, or metal, worked by collecting sound and directing it into the ear, much like cupping your hand to listen better.²

These types of acoustic hearing aids might not have amplified sound electronically, but their shape helped improve hearing in quiet settings. Early models were often large and noticeable but provided important support for mild to moderate hearing loss. Even famous figures like Beethoven used these devices to stay connected to the sounds around them.³

Late 19th To 20th Century: The Dawn Of Electronic Hearing Aids

The introduction of electricity transformed hearing aids by allowing sound to be amplified electronically rather than relying on natural acoustics. Early electric hearing aids used a carbon transmitter, similar to the microphone in old telephones, to pick up sound and make it louder.⁴

This breakthrough meant hearing aids could amplify quieter sounds and help people with more severe hearing loss. However, the first electric devices were bulky and needed to be carried or worn on the body. Later, vacuum tubes improved amplification but added size and weight, making early electric hearing aids less convenient but far more powerful than ear trumpets.

Mid-20th Century: The Transistor Revolution

The invention of the transistor transformed hearing aids by making them significantly smaller and more practical. Unlike the large, heavy vacuum tube devices, transistor hearing aids could fit comfortably behind or inside the ear.⁴

This advancement helped to improve battery life and also made hearing aids more durable and convenient for everyday use. Those wearing hearing aids began to enjoy clearer sound quality in a device that was less visible and easier to wear.

Late 20th Century: Digital Sign Processing

Digital technology marked a turning point for hearing aids. With the introduction of digital signal processing (DSP), hearing aids gained the ability to analyse incoming sounds, automatically reducing background noise and enhancing speech clarity. This made listening in noisy environments much easier.⁴

Hearing aids also became smaller and more discrete, with personalised programming allowing a hearing care professional to tailor settings to each user’s needs. Wireless features began to appear, enabling direct streaming of audio from phones and other devices.

21st Century: Smart Hearing Aids And Beyond

Today, modern hearing aids are powered by artificial intelligence (AI), which allows them to adapt instantly to complex listening environments, delivering clearer speech with ease. Most models now include built-in wireless connectivity, allowing you to stream music, take phone calls, and listen to other audio directly through your hearing aids.⁵ Many can also be controlled with easy-to-use smartphone apps, giving you complete control over your hearing at your fingertips. 

Other noteworthy advancements in hearing aids include:

• AI-driven noise reduction and customisation
• Wireless streaming and app-based controls
• Over-the-counter models and discrete designs have made hearing aids more affordable and socially acceptable

If you’re ready to explore the latest in hearing aid technology and find the best option to suit your needs, book an appointment at your local Connect Hearing clinic. Our experienced team of experts can provide advice, personalised fittings, and ongoing support to help you hear your best every day.

References

1. Audiology Research (24 April 2025), The Ongoing Challenges of Hearing Loss: Stigma, Socio-cultural Differences, and Accessibility Barriers, National Library of Medicine, accessed 12 August 2025. 
2. ENT & Audiology News (3 November 2023), A brief history of the acoustic ear trumpet and some favourite collections, www.entandaudiology.news.com, accessed 12 August 2025.
3. Otology & Neurotology (October 2020), Beethoven: His Hearing Loss and His Hearing Aids, Otology & Neurotology, accessed 12 August 2025. 
4. IEEE Engineering Medicine & Biology Society (23 October 2020), Hearing Aid History: From Ear Trumpets to Digital Technology, www.embs.org, accessed 12 August 2025.
5. Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health (August 2024), Artificial Intelligence for hearing loss prevention, diagnosis, and management, Science Direct, accessed 12 August 2025.